The Karnataka primary and secondary education minister, S Suresh Kumar said the government has no intention of re-opening schools in a haste and a decision will be taken in the best interest of children. During a virtual meeting with district representatives of primary schools, high school teacher associations and undergraduate lecturer associations on Thursday, October 1, 2020 he said: “Our children are very important to the government. I am a parent to all schoolchildren in the state and not just the education minister. We will consult all stakeholders in the education sector, including experts, parent organisations, private school organisations and lawmakers among others. A decision will be taken after that.”

He said the SOPs were formulated so that preparations could be made to start schools later, “We will not reopen schools right away. We will not take a decision that will endanger children’s health. Parents shouldn’t worry,” he said.

Kumar also added that classes conducted through YouTube, online media and Chandana TV channel are only to ensure continuity in learning. He said, “We are convinced that they are neither a complete alternative nor a supplement. No learning method is as effective as classroom learning.”

Suggestions from representatives of several teacher-lecturer organisations during the webinar stated that since schools were shut due to Covid-19, social problems like child marriage and child labour had increased in rural areas. They suggested schools be restarted for students of classes 10 to 12.

The government will soon come out with more information on reopening of schools and colleges, said deputy chief minister and higher education minister, CN Ashwath Narayan.

While speaking to reporters, he said UGC has already issued guidelines for starting colleges and the government is making the necessary preparations. He said more clarity will emerge after his discussion with minister Suresh Kumar.

“Academic activities have been initiated with all precautions so that students and parents don’t have any problem,” the DCM said.

Source: Times of India

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